Automotive Engineering International 2006-05-01

Looking out at GenevaPerformance, economy, and individuality, each achieved by technology, were the three overriding motor show themes at the Geneva-Palexpo--all good reasons why auto industry executives closely monitoring competitors needed to be on Swiss watch.

Innovation offensiveNorth American automakers and suppliers know that moving the ball forward and technologically is their best bet for survival, if not success. In the special section on the following pages, some of the automotive industry's top executives discuss the latest trends and their strategies for game-changing vehicle engineering and development.

Putting design in the driver's seatGeneral Motors has dramatically shifted its product development focus from one led by engineering and manufacturing to one led by design and styling.

Ford's new approachThe company has restructured its engineering organization to maximize efficiencies and help bring stylish new vehicles to market more quickly.

In a sharing moodTo help shorten development time, contain costs, and satisfy demand for differentiation, Chrysler Group is pushing flexible vehicle architectures that can be shared by many products.

Integrating and differentiatingVisteon aims to leverage its global presence by effective integration of technology and providing customers with efficient ways to differentiate their vehicles.

Switching strategiesLear will rely more on its expertise in electrical distribution and electronics to help customers enhance vehicle safety and convenience features.

Customer diversification Job One at MagnaAnticipating modest content growth in North America and even less in Europe, the Canada-based company looks for advantage in Asia.

Getting charged for new businessHybrid-electric vehicles have found an early adopters audience, but predictions that HEVs willl soon sway the mainstream public could spur high-volume sales and better returns for suppliers like Johnson Controls.